“You’re going to be fine,” Josie whispered.
“I’m just happy you and Reese are together again.”
“Oh. That. We’re not… Steph…”
“Right,” Steph said. “You’re not together. Sure. I’m just glad he comes around. He makes me feel safe, Josie.”
“Me too,” Josie whispered.
“Even though his life is out of control. They live in such a crazy way.”
“The only way they know,” Josie said.
She stood up and said one more goodbye.
When she got to the club, it was quiet. They weren’t opening for another couple of hours. Something about seeing the stage dark and not hearing music gave the place an entirely different feel. Jefferson was in his office, walking from wall to wall, trying to weasel his way out of some debt. All Josie could hope was that whatever it was, it didn’t hurt the business. Or screw over the MC.
She went behind the bar to work on inventory and orders.
Parker showed up a short while later to get things set up for his double.
Josie gave a wave as she was at the opposite end of the bar.
She planned on going to talk to him, but she saw Starla from the corner of her eye. Dressed in cut off jean shorts that were less than a bikini bottom. Her top was hot pink, showing off a neon yellow bra strap. Her dirty blonde hair pulled back in a messy wannabe bun.
“Hey.”
“Starla.”
“I’m not on today.”
“Okay,” Josie said.
Starla bit her lip. “Can I get a drink?”
“Soda?”
“Vodka.”
“Do you have ID?”
Starla tilted her head. “What?”
“Nothing,” Josie said.
She rolled her eyes and poured Starla a drink.
As Starla reached into her pocket, Josie swatted her hand away. “Don’t.”
“What?”
“Everyone gets a free drink.”
“When they’re working,” Starla said.
“Don’t tell Jefferson then,” Josie said. “Deal?”
“Deal.” Starla sipped… then chugged. She finished the drink and put the glass down.